6 Global Interior Design Styles That Belong in Your UK Home
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6 Global Interior Design Styles That Belong in Your UK Home

6 Global Interior Design Styles That Belong in Your UK Home

By Jocie Juritz
A bright living room showcasing a central table with four chairs, complemented by warm decor and inviting ambiance

UK homes are evolving—and it is global design trends leading the charge. From Scandi calm to Moroccan flair, homeowners are mixing worldwide styles to create spaces that reflect their taste and story.

According to IBIS World, the UK interior design industry is now worth £1.5 billion, proving our appetite for creativity is growing fast. If you are looking to upgrade your space with a worldly twist, here are the standout styles making waves.

In this guide, we will share design styles from around the world and show you how to adapt them to your home in the UK with confidence and creativity.

Design Inspiration From Around the World for the Stylish UK Home

Here are some worldly design ideas for the stylish UK home:

modern, minimalist lounge with a striking mustard-yellow curved sofa, soft grey rug, and round wooden coffee tables. The room features artistic lighting, potted greenery, and a perforated metallic wall with soft shadows from tall plants behind.

1. Add Scandi Touch for Calm Functionality

Scandinavian design comes from the Nordic countries and concentrates on minimalism, practicality, and a solid connection to nature. This style is known for simple lines, neutral colours, and natural materials, creating calm and functional spaces.

In the UK, interest in minimalism has increased significantly. In fact, more than 18,000 people search for ‘minimalism’ on Google monthly, a 22% rise from 2024. This shows that more people want tidy, simple spaces reflecting Scandinavian design ideas.

To add Scandinavian minimalism to your home in the UK, utilise light-colored walls, choose high-quality wooden furniture, and let in more natural light. Declutter your space and select decorative items that serve both looks and function. Brands like Muuto and Ferm Living offer a range of products that match this design style.

serene Japanese-style room with sliding shoji doors, a low unmade futon bed on a tatami mat floor, and a view of a forested hillside through large windows. Two wooden chairs and a small table sit on the balcony, overlooking traditional rooftops and a quiet mountain town

2. Curate Imperfection with Japanese Wabi-Sabi

Wabi-Sabi is a Japanese style that values the beauty of imperfection and the temporary nature of life. It appreciates natural materials, uneven shapes, and the joy that comes with age, creating spaces that feel authentic and lived-in.

To bring Wabi-Sabi into your home in the UK, focus on using organic textures like rough wood, stone, and linen. Opt for handmade items, vintage finds, and pieces that tell a story. Maintain a sense of openness and minimalism. This approach adds depth to your home while promoting a sense of calm.

cosy living room corner featuring a vintage brown velvet and leather sofa placed on a patterned rug, with a small black side table holding snacks and a water bottle. Sunlight streams in through a window with potted plants on the sill, and a woven tapestry hangs behind the sofa

3. Layer Up with Moroccan Textures and Colour

Moroccan design is known for its bright colours, intricate patterns, and rich textures. Key features include zellige tiles, Beni Ourain rugs, and tadelakt walls, which bring warmth and depth to spaces.

In the UK, you can add Moroccan style to your home by using vibrant fabrics, decorative lanterns, and patterned tiles. Consider creating a feature wall with bold colours or using a striking rug to anchor your space.

modern, minimalist bedroom featuring a low-profile beige bed with grey bedding and a soft throw. The headboard wall is decorated with a cherry blossom mural, framed by wood panelling. Two pendant lights hang over matching wooden bedside tables

4. Celebrate Craftsmanship with Middle Eastern Luxury

The interiors of the Middle East exude luxury through fine details, rich materials, and a combination of traditional and modern styles. This design often features high-quality materials, golden accents, and custom-made furniture.

One of the more elegant design trends from the UAE is the focus on bespoke bedroom pieces that balance luxury and function. Helmii custom-made beds, a UAE-based brand, takes personalisation seriously – offering made-to-order beds where customers choose everything from fabric and leg style to size and colour. Though it serves the UAE only, it is a perfect example of how craftsmanship and customisation are at the heart of contemporary design.

Consider adding items like velvet cushions, brass accents, and handmade furniture to bring a touch of Middle Eastern luxury to your UK residence. Prioritise craftmanship by selecting pieces that add elegance and comfort to your space.

bright, luxurious living room with cream and beige tones featuring a plush velvet sofa, two modern white chairs, and a mirrored glass coffee table decorated with crystal ornaments. Built-in wall shelving displays elegant vases, sculptures, and family photos

5. Add Energy with Brazilian Modernism

Brazilian modernism mixes unique architectural designs with natural materials, creating lively and stable spaces. This style often features open floor plans, tropical wood, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor areas.

You can adopt Brazilian modernism in the UK by adding stylish wooden furniture, indoor plants, and large windows to let in more natural light. To energise your spaces, use a colour palette with natural tones accented by bright colours. This approach adds energy while keeping in tune with nature.

A collection of terracotta flower pots with decorative, colourful tile-patterned designs in shades of blue, teal, and red

6. Stay Grounded with African Earth Tones and Artistry

Design inspired by Africa honours the continent’s vibrant culture through warm hues, artisanal fabrics, and significant patterns. Common elements include mud cloths, carved wood, and woven baskets.

To incorporate African art into your UK home, use terracotta colours, natural materials, and handcrafted decor. Include wall art, sculptures, and fabrics to enrich the story of your space. Supporting fair-trade artisans ensures your design options are authentic and sustainable.

Recently, COAT Paints launched 33 new colours for the UK’s unique lighting conditions. The focus is on earthy shades and warm neutrals. This range features a broader palette of ochre hues, plasters, and earthy tones, easing the incorporation of African-inspired colours into British residences.

Conclusion

Looking at international interior design trends can help you create a stylish and personal UK home. You might appreciate the calmness of Scandinavian design, the unique flaws of Wabi-Sabi, or the vibrant patterns of Moroccan decor. There’s plenty of inspiration available to bring into your space.

The key is to keep a balance. Each cultural element should enhance your home without taking over. When done well, your home can showcase global beauty while adding warmth and meaning.

Feel free to mix and match different styles. Let your interior design tell your story and reflect your personality.

Jocie Juritz
As the founder of Jocie Juritz Architecture and Interior Design, I am deeply committed to creating extraordinary residential and commercial projects that embody elegance, functionality, and individuality. From the first spark of an idea to the final, polished detail, I collaborate closely with my clients to transform their visions into inspiring, enduring environments.